Beach Bliss: The Ultimate Family Day Trip to Long Beach

Family fun awaits in Long Beach, the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Long Beach, United States promises both relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches and take a leisurely stroll on the iconic boardwalk, as your children build sandcastles or fly kites. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific for an educational and fun experience, and explore the vibrant downtown area with its shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Sun, Sand, and Sensational Seafood

  • Start your day with a yummy breakfast at the lively and eclectic "Coffee Cup Café," where the pancakes are as fluffy as clouds and the coffee flows like liquid sunshine.
  • Immerse yourself in the vibrant aquatic wonderland of the Aquarium of the Pacific, where you can swim with the fish (not literally!) and marvel at the playful sea otters.
  • Feel the sand between your toes as you stroll along the breathtaking Long Beach Boardwalk, with its picturesque views of the endless ocean and the colorful kites dancing in the breeze.
  • Refuel at the iconic "Pike Restaurant and Bar," a historic landmark where the tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood merges with the delightful sounds of seagulls. Try their succulent fish and chips a true taste of the California coast!
  • Unleash your inner kid at the Queen Mary, an awe-inspiring ocean liner turned floating museum. Explore its rich history, hunt for ghostly specters (if you dare!), and enjoy the stunning ocean vistas from the ship's deck.
  • End your day with a stroll through the enchanting Shoreline Village, a charming waterfront area filled with quirky shops, vibrant street performers, and delightful ice cream parlors. Treat yourself to a scoop of the local flavor: sea salt caramel, a sweet reminder of your unforgettable day in Long Beach.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Long Beach by plane is to fly into Long Beach Airport (LGB). Several major airlines such as Delta, JetBlue, and Southwest offer direct flights to LGB from major cities across the United States.

Car

The best way to get to Long Beach by car is to take a major highway such as Interstate 405 or Interstate 710. Both highways lead directly to Long Beach and offer easy access to the city's attractions and amenities.

Train

Unfortunately, there is no train station in Long Beach. However, travelers can take Amtrak to nearby cities such as Los Angeles or Anaheim, and then transfer to a bus or taxi to get to Long Beach.

Boat

Travelers can take a ferry to Long Beach from nearby Catalina Island. The Catalina Express operates daily ferries from Avalon and Two Harbors to Long Beach Marina. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

Bus

A convenient way to get to Long Beach by bus is to take a Greyhound bus to the Long Beach Transit Center. Several major bus lines, including Greyhound and Megabus, operate daily buses to the Transit Center from major cities across the United States.

Destination

Long Beach

Long Beach is a coastal paradise where the ocean meets the sand and the sun shines bright enough to tan even a vampire. It's the perfect destination for those who love to soak up the sun or rinse off the saltwater with a fruity drink in hand.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

The Ultimate Long Beach Weekend Adventure Guide

Long Beach is a vibrant coastal city in Southern California that offers a unique blend of beach life, urban dwellings and cultural attractions. As a tourist, one can enjoy the city's iconic attractions such as the Queen Mary and Aquarium of the Pacific, pamper themselves with world-class dining and shopping experiences, or simply soak up the sun on the city's popular beaches. With its mild climate, scenic beauty, and diverse cultural offerings, Long Beach is the perfect destination for a fun-filled and relaxing vacation.

Sunny Seaside Fun in Long Beach

Experience the sunny seaside city of Long Beach without breaking the bank. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, stroll around the waterfront, and sample the local cuisine at the Pike Outlets. Stay at affordable hotels or hostels and take advantage of the city's public transportation to explore nearby attractions such as downtown Los Angeles and Disneyland.

Long Beach Bliss: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Adventure

Long Beach, located in the beautiful state of California, offers a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip. With its picturesque beaches stretching along the coast, there are numerous opportunities for sun-soaked fun, including sandcastle building, surfing lessons, and beach volleyball. Additionally, families can enjoy exploring the iconic Aquarium of the Pacific, taking boat tours to spot whales and dolphins, or even visiting the legendary Queen Mary ship-turned-hotel, making Long Beach an ideal vacation spot for the whole family.

Long Beach on a Budget: 2 Days of Adventure.

Visiting Long Beach on a budget is achievable with some smart planning. Explore the beaches, museums, and cultural festivals, all free or low-cost. Try local street food and stay in affordable accommodations at motels or Airbnb options for an affordable yet memorable vacation.